Thanks to their convenience and kid-friendly appeal, ultra-processed foods have become a staple in many children’s diets.

However, while they may be quick and easy meal options, their impact on children’s oral health is increasingly concerning, and something a lot of parents aren’t aware of.

From high sugar content to a lack of nutrients that support strong teeth and gums, UPFs can contribute to cavities, gum disease, and even developmental issues in the face.

Dr Smita Mehra, Principal Dentist at The Neem Tree Dental Practices, has provided insight into ultra-processed foods and what it can do to your child’s development.

Can it actually change your face structure?

“The potential link between UPFs and jaw development stems from how these foods affect chewing and muscle activity. Ultra-processed foods are often soft and require minimal chewing compared to whole foods like fruits, vegetables, meats and whole grains.

“Chewing is a vital part of stimulating jaw growth and alignment, particularly during critical periods of a child’s development.”

What other changes can it cause?

“A diet high in ultra-processed foods during childhood can potentially lead to changes in a child’s facial and jaw development. These changes are due to the reduced need for active chewing and the lack of nutrition that comes with a diet made up of UPFs. They can include:

An underdeveloped jaw may reduce airway size, encouraging mouth breathing, which can disrupt sleep.
The muscles used for chewing will be underused and hence weaker. This could produce avoidance of chewing harder foods like nuts or steak, thereby further inhibiting a diet including raw foods.
Poor jaw development can affect tongue placement and the ability to articulate certain sounds, potentially leading to speech impediments.
Ultra-processed foods often lack important nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, which are necessary for bone development, including the jaw.

“If a child’s diet isn’t changed, it can lead to lifelong complications, including:

Need for orthodontic interventions, such as braces or palate expanders.
Increased risk of dental decay and gum disease due to overcrowded teeth.
Persistent breathing or sleep issues.

Here’s how to avoid seeing these changes in your child

“Ensure children consume a balanced diet of essential nutrients for overall growth and development. Introduce foods that require active chewing, stimulating jaw muscles and supporting bone growth. Here are some foods you can start to introduce into their diet to steer away from exclusively feeding them ultra-processed foods:

Fruits: Apples, pears, and other firm fruits.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and other crunchy raw veggies.
Proteins: Lean meats, poultry, or plant-based options like tofu.
Whole Grains: Whole-grain bread, rice, and nuts.

“Teach your children to chew food thoroughly instead of gulping or swallowing large pieces. As your kids grow up, keep instilling these good habits and teach them the importance of a balanced diet. This can empower them to make better choices as they become more independent. And start these habits early.”